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MNL → POM
Which side of the plane to sit from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Manila) to Port Moresby Jacksons International Airport (Port Moresby)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most dramatic views of the New Guinea central highlands, including the rare tropical glaciers of the Maoke Mountains and the intricate river systems of Lorentz National Park.
Mount Banahaw
A majestic, holy volcano in the Quezon province of the Philippines, visible during the initial climb-out south.
Visayan Archipelago
Clear views of the eastern islands of the Philippines, including Samar and Leyte, before crossing the Philippine Sea.
Puncak Jaya
Also known as Carstensz Pyramid, this is the highest peak in Oceania, often still sporting small, rare tropical glaciers.
Lorentz National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring an incredible transition from snow-capped peaks to tropical mangroves.
Gulf of Papua
Intricate, silt-filled river deltas and vast swampy landscapes where the Fly River meets the sea.
The right side is the 'mountain side.' For the best views of Puncak Jaya and the central cordillera, try to book a flight that passes over Western New Guinea between 9 AM and 11 AM before daily cloud cover builds up over the peaks. Bring a polarizing filter for your camera to cut through the haze over the Gulf of Papua.
Laguna de Bay
Aerial view of the Philippines' largest lake and the surrounding urban sprawl of Metro Manila shortly after takeoff.
Bicol Peninsula
Distant views of the volcanic landscape of Southern Luzon, including the silhouette of the perfectly conical Mount Mayon.
Cenderawasih Bay
A massive bay in Western New Guinea known for its incredible marine biodiversity and whale shark populations.
Biak Island
A significant historical WWII site and coral-fringed island visible as the flight tracks along the northern coast of Papua.
Owen Stanley Range
The rugged mountain spine of Papua New Guinea that dominates the landscape during the final approach into Port Moresby.
The left side is preferable for morning flights to avoid the harsh tropical sun glare. As you approach Port Moresby, watch for the coral reefs lining the coastline, which are particularly vibrant in the late morning light. Keep an eye out for the northern coastline of New Guinea for views of deep-water bays.
Distance: 3,929 km (2,441 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 37 min
Departure: MNL (14.5086, 121.019997)
Arrival: POM (-9.44338035583496, 147.22000122070312)
Route Type: International
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